Mercy Medical Center has become the first hospital in Iowa to perform breast cancer surgery using SCOUT MD, a radar-based guidance system designed to improve surgical precision and patient comfort.
Surgical oncologist Dr. Vincent Reid performed the first procedure using the technology last week at Mercy’s Hall-Perrine Cancer Center.
SCOUT MD provides a wire-free alternative to traditional tumor localization methods by placing small reflectors before surgery. The system allows surgeons to locate tumors, map margins in real time and preserve healthy tissue, which can reduce the need for additional procedures.
The technology features four distinct reflector shapes that enable precise margin mapping and localization of multiple lesions.
On the same day Mercy introduced SCOUT MD in Iowa, Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute in Tampa, Florida, also performed breast cancer surgery using the technology. The two organizations became the first in the nation to use SCOUT MD.
“Being the first hospital in Iowa to use SCOUT MD reflects our dedication to advancing breast cancer care through innovation,” Reid said. “These technologies help us provide the best possible outcomes while improving the overall experience for our patients.”
Mercy first introduced Savi SCOUT, Merit Medical’s original platform, to Iowa in 2018. Reid partnered with Merit Medical on early cases to refine the technology, and his recent procedures mark the launch of the updated platform at Mercy.
Last month, Reid became the first surgeon in the world to use MarginProbe 2, a device that helps confirm clear margins during breast cancer surgery.
Mercy Medical Center is a 424-licensed-bed hospital in Cedar Rapids. The Catholic health care system operates specialty clinics and MercyCare primary and urgent care clinics throughout Cedar Rapids and surrounding communities.
